In the realm of scientific inquiry, measurement forms the very bedrock of understanding. As technology evolves, so too does our ability to measure phenomena that were once deemed elusive. Recent advancements in quantum sensing have opened the door to measuring intricate details, such as atomic vibrations, the characteristics of individual photons, and the subtle fluctuations
Physics
Topological materials have garnered significant attention in the field of condensed matter physics due to their unique properties, which emerge from the exotic nature of their wavefunctions. At the heart of these materials lies a profound physical principle: the behavior of electrons is fundamentally altered by the topology of the material’s electronic states. This article
The world of quantum mechanics is often home to paradoxes and intriguing phenomena that challenge classical intuitions about reality. Among these is Hardy’s paradox, introduced by physicist Lucien Hardy in the 1990s. This paradox serves as a test of local realism, the classical notion that physical properties exist independently of observation and that no information
For decades, scientists have grappled with one of physics’ most profound mysteries: the intersection of gravity and quantum mechanics. Despite significant advancements in understanding fundamental forces like electromagnetism and nuclear interactions through quantum theory, gravity has remained an enigma, cloaked in classical interpretations. With gravity operating on a macro level as an observable force—planets orbiting
Plasma, often dubbed the fourth state of matter, is a fascinating and complex medium found both in the cosmos and in controlled laboratory environments such as fusion devices. Its behavior under various conditions can yield critical insights not only about our own planet’s phenomena but also about far more enigmatic entities such as black holes
Recent advancements in experimental physics have sparked renewed interest in the manipulation of atomic spins, particularly in the context of measuring extremely weak magnetic fields. A team of researchers, under the leadership of Professor Peng Xinhua and Associate Professor Jiang Min from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), has authored a groundbreaking
In the realm of condensed matter physics, excitons have garnered significant attention due to their potential applications in the technology of the future. These quasi-particles form when an electron is excited from its normal state, creating a “hole” in the process, leading to a bound state due to their opposite charges. Observed predominantly in insulators
Graphene, often touted for its remarkable electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties, has been at the forefront of materials science research. Its utility spans a wide range of applications, from flexible electronics to high-performance transistors. However, one of the most exciting areas of research lies in the manipulation of its electronic band structure, which directly influences
In the quest for enhanced detection and measurement capabilities, recent advancements in photonics and materials science have fostered groundbreaking innovations in sensor technology. As we stand at the intersection of multiple scientific disciplines, non-Hermitian physics has emerged as a pivotal area for research, offering fresh methodologies to manipulate light and substantially increase sensor sensitivity. A
Alzheimer’s disease, a complex and multifaceted neurodegenerative disorder, has long been associated with amyloid plaques—abnormal clumps of protein found in the brains of those affected. For years, research efforts have concentrated on diminishing the presence of these amyloid fibrils, with the prevailing belief that their accumulation directly contributes to the onset and progression of dementia.
In recent years, the intersection of sports and physics has garnered significant attention, particularly in unique disciplines like skateboarding. A team comprising engineers and mathematicians from ETH Zürich, in collaboration with esteemed institutions in Japan, has found a way to effectively model the intriguing mechanics behind the technique known as “pumping” in skateboarding, particularly on
For decades, researchers have meticulously navigated the complexities of laser technology, developing efficient lasers capable of emitting red and blue light. Despite these advancements, scientists have faced notable hurdles in creating compact lasers that can reliably produce green and yellow light. This gap, known in the scientific community as the “green gap,” has limited the